ENERGIZED BY THIS ENDORSEMENT OF MY UNIVERSAL DESIGN SKILLS

AS A KEYNOTE SPEAKER AND PLANNING CONSULTANT

"I highly recommend Steve Wright for any future projects or initiatives that involve Universal Design or the promotion of accessibility. 

His expertise and commitment to inclusivity will undoubtedly continue to make a positive impact on the communities he serves." 

--Eric Larson, CEO, Downtown Detroit Partnership, 2023

The Downtown Detroit Partnership is a group of diverse business and community leaders committed to supporting a vibrant, thriving and welcoming urban center through innovation, investment, philanthropy and community building. 

Having observed its centennial in 2022, the DDP is one of the oldest and most successful downtown organizations in the nation.

 

ENERGIZED BY THIS ENDORSEMENT OF MY UNIVERSAL DESIGN SKILLS

AS A KEYNOTE SPEAKER AND PLANNING CONSULTANT

"Steve Wright's ability to communicate concepts in an accessible manner was evident, and his passion for Universal Design shone through in every aspect of his presentation. 

Steve's contributions have made a lasting impact on our organization, and we are immensely grateful for his dedication and expertise. 

His commitment to promoting inclusivity and accessibility aligns perfectly with our mission to create a Downtown Detroit that is welcoming to everyone."

--Eric Larson, CEO, Downtown Detroit Partnership, 2023

The Downtown Detroit Partnership is a group of diverse business and community leaders committed to supporting a vibrant, thriving and welcoming urban center through innovation, investment, philanthropy and community building. 

Having observed its centennial in 2022, the DDP is one of the oldest and most successful downtown organizations in the nation.

ENERGIZED BY THIS ENDORSEMENT OF MY UNIVERSAL DESIGN SKILLS

AS A KEYNOTE SPEAKER AND PLANNING CONSULTANT

"While in town, Steve Wright delivered an engaging and informative visual presentation during to DDP leadership and team. 

His presentation, which lasted approximately one hour, allowed ample time for questions and answers, fostering a productive and insightful dialogue."

--Eric Larson, CEO, Downtown Detroit Partnership, 2023

The Downtown Detroit Partnership is a group of diverse business and community leaders committed to supporting a vibrant, thriving and welcoming urban center through innovation, investment, philanthropy and community building. 

Having observed its centennial in 2022, the DDP is one of the oldest and most successful downtown organizations in the nation.

 

ENERGIZED BY THIS ENDORSEMENT OF MY UNIVERSAL DESIGN SKILLS

AS A KEYNOTE SPEAKER AND PLANNING CONSULTANT

"Within 30 days of the tour, as per the agreed-upon timeframe, Steve Wright submitted a concise yet comprehensive report summarizing his observations, recommendations, and suggestions. 

The report was well-structured and provided actionable insights that are now being used as a guide to inform future design and development initiatives within the Downtown Detroit area. 

Steve's expertise and attention to detail contributed to the quality of this report and its value to our organization."

--Eric Larson, CEO, Downtown Detroit Partnership, 2023

The Downtown Detroit Partnership is a group of diverse business and community leaders committed to supporting a vibrant, thriving and welcoming urban center through innovation, investment, philanthropy and community building. 

Having observed its centennial in 2022, the DDP is one of the oldest and most successful downtown organizations in the nation.

ENERGIZED BY THIS ENDORSEMENT OF MY UNIVERSAL DESIGN SKILLS

AS A KEYNOTE SPEAKER AND PLANNING CONSULTANT 

"Steve Wright's assignment with DDP was to conduct a comprehensive walking tour on Monday, June 12, 2023, in the company of key members of our team.

The purpose of the tour was to highlight Universal Design issues and identify opportunities to enhance accessibility and inclusivity within our city center. 

Steve's guidance and insights during the 90-minute walking tour were invaluable.

He demonstrated a deep understanding of Universal Design principles, and his ability to articulate the importance of creating spaces that are accessible to all members of the community was thoughtful."

--Eric Larson, CEO, Downtown Detroit Partnership, 2023

The Downtown Detroit Partnership is a group of diverse business and community leaders committed to supporting a vibrant, thriving and welcoming urban center through innovation, investment, philanthropy and community building. 

Having observed its centennial in 2022, the DDP is one of the oldest and most successful downtown organizations in the nation.

ENERGIZED BY THIS ENDORSEMENT OF MY UNIVERSAL DESIGN SKILLS

 AS A KEYNOTE SPEAKER AND PLANNING CONSULTANT

"I am writing to provide a recommendation for Steve Wright and the services he provided during his engagement with the Downtown Detroit Partnership (DDP).

Steve's expertise in Universal Design and his commitment to promoting inclusivity have had an important impact on our organization and the Downtown Detroit community as DDP continues its stewardship of our downtown."

--Eric Larson, CEO, Downtown Detroit Partnership, 2023

The Downtown Detroit Partnership is a group of diverse business and community leaders committed to supporting a vibrant, thriving and welcoming urban center through innovation, investment, philanthropy and community building. 

Having observed its centennial in 2022, the DDP is one of the oldest and most successful downtown organizations in the nation.

HAPPY TO WRITE ABOUT INCLUSIVE DESIGN

WORK WITH DOWNTOWN DETROIT PARTNERSHIP

Thanks to DBusiness, Detroit’s premier business publication, for publishing my brief on why design for all is essential for Downtown Detroit.

I was pleased to work with the Downtown Detroit Partnership on an assessment of Universal Design and opportunities to increase inclusion for people with disabilities.

Eric Larson and DDP leadership embraced my ideas.

I will be doing more of these walking/rolling workshops in major cities in 2024.

https://issuu.com/hour_media/docs/dbusiness_nov_dec_2023_digimag/24

xx

THRILLED TO BE WORKING WITH THE DOWNTOWN DETROIT PARTNERSHIP

THIS MONTH'S WALKING WORKSHOP AND 

UNIVERSAL DESIGN PRESENTATIONS ARE 

THE COMMENCEMENT OF A LONG COLLABORATION

I enjoyed every moment of my work on inclusive design and urban planning for all with the Downtown Detroit Partnership (DDP).

I was on the street in the urban core as the sun rose just before 6 a.m. on a Sunday.

I logged nearly 10 miles walked each day, as I marveled at the rebirth of Woodward Avenue and dozens of architecturally exquisite buildings that used to be abandoned.

I worked with outstanding DDP staff as I saw its programming of world class public space such at Campus Martius Park and the evolving Capitol Square Park.

I got insights on the future plans to revitalize Grand Circus Park.

During a pair of hourlong presentations to senior staff, I shared my thoughts on nearly two dozen good elements of downtown that could be made greater with better access for people with disabilities to transit, promenades, public spaces and wide sidewalks.

I look forward to future work on best practices with the DDP under the outstanding leadership of CEO Eric Larson and his staff.

The DDP celebrated its centennial last year.

Its mission is to cultivate economic and social impact in Downtown Detroit by connecting public, private and philanthropic sectors, providing stewardship of public spaces, and developing programs that engage and benefit all.

https://downtowndetroit.org/

GRATIFIED TO SPEAK AT THE COMMENCEMENT FOR URBAN LAND INSTITUTE MICHIGAN'S

LARSON CENTER FOR LEADERSHIP 

I was in Detroit to conduct a Universal Design walking workshop plus senior staff presentation on design for people with disabilities to the Downtown Detroit Partnership.

Eric Larson, CEO of DDP, graciously invited me to be the challenge speaker at the end of the daylong graduation of the latest class of ULI leaders.

I was honored to compose an hourlong, visual and interactive speech in one day’s time on the road.

I look forward to future collaborations with Michigan leaders who are invested in inclusion and design for all.

https://michigan.uli.org/get-involved/larsonleadership/